miércoles, 1 de junio de 2016

Cáncer de cuello uterino (PDQ®)—Versión para pacientes - National Cancer Institute

Cáncer de cuello uterino (PDQ®)—Versión para pacientes - National Cancer Institute

National Cancer Institute



Instituto Nacional Del Cáncer

Cáncer de cuello uterino: Tratamiento (PDQ®)–Versión para pacientes





SECCIONES

Información general sobre el cáncer de cuello uterino

PUNTOS IMPORTANTES

  • El cáncer de cuello uterino es una enfermedad por la que se forman células malignas (cancerosas) en los tejidos del cuello uterino.
  • La infección por el virus del papiloma humano (VPH) es el principal factor de riesgo del cáncer de cuello uterino.
  • Por lo general no se presentan signos o síntomas de cáncer de cuello uterino temprano, pero puede detectarse a tiempo con exámenes regulares.
  • Entre los signos y síntomas de cáncer de cuello uterino están el sangrado vaginal y dolor pélvico.
  • Para detectar (encontrar) y diagnosticar el cáncer de cuello uterino, se utilizan pruebas que examinan el cuello uterino.
  • Ciertos factores afectan el pronóstico (posibilidad de recuperación) y las opciones de tratamiento.

El cáncer de cuello uterino es una enfermedad por la que se forman células malignas (cancerosas) en los tejidos del cuello uterino.

El cuello uterino es el extremo inferior, estrecho del útero (el órgano hueco, en forma de pera donde se desarrolla el feto). El cuello uterino comunica el útero con la vagina (canal del parto).
AMPLIARAnatomía del aparato reproductor femenino; la imagen muestra el útero, el miometrio (capa muscular externa del útero), el endometrio (revestimiento interno del útero), los ovarios, las trompas de Falopio, el cuello uterino y la vagina.
Anatomía del aparato reproductor femenino. Los órganos del aparato reproductor femenino incluyen el útero, los ovarios, las trompas de Falopio, el cuello uterino y la vagina. El útero tiene una capa muscular externa que se llama miometrio y un revestimiento interno que se llama endometrio.
El cáncer de cuello uterino, por lo general, evoluciona lentamente con el paso del tiempo. Antes de que el cáncer aparezca en el cuello uterino, sus células pasan por cambios llamados displasias, en los que empiezan a aparecer células anormales en el tejido delcuello uterino. Con el tiempo, las células anormales se pueden convertir en células cancerosas y comenzar a crecer y diseminarse más profundamente en el cuello uterino y las áreas cercanas.
El cáncer de cuello uterino es poco frecuente en los niños. Para más información, consulte el sumario del PDQ sobre los Tratamiento de los cánceres poco comunes en la niñez.

La infección por el virus del papiloma humano (VPH) es el principal factor de riesgo del cáncer de cuello uterino.

Cualquier cosa que aumenta el riesgo de contraer una enfermedad se llama factor de riesgo. Tener un factor de riesgo no significa que se va a padecer de cáncer; no tener un factor de riesgo no significa que no se va a padecer de cáncer. La persona que piensa que puede estar en riesgo debe consultar con su médico.
La infección del cuello uterino por el virus del papiloma humano (VPH) o papilomavirus humano es casi siempre la causa de cáncer de cuello uterino. No obstante, no todas las mujeres con infección por el VPH padecerán de cáncer de cuello uterino. Las mujeres que generalmente no se someten a pruebas para detectar el VPH o células anormales en el cuello uterino tienen mayor riesgo de presentar cáncer de cuello uterino. Hay dos vacunaspara prevenir el VPH en las niñas y jóvenes sin VPH. Para mayor información, consulte el sumario del PDQ sobre Prevención del cáncer de cuello uterino.
Otros factores de riesgo posibles incluyen los siguientes:
  • Dar a luz a muchos hijos.
  • Tener muchas parejas sexuales.
  • Mantener la primera relación sexual a una edad temprana.
  • Fumar cigarrillos.
  • Usar píldoras anticonceptivas orales ("la píldora").

Por lo general no se presentan signos o síntomas de cáncer de cuello uterino temprano, pero puede detectarse a tiempo con exámenes regulares.

Es posible que el cáncer de cuello uterino no cause signos o síntomas. Las mujeres deben someterse a exámenes regulares como pruebas para identificar el VPH o células anormales en el cuello uterino. El pronóstico (posibilidad de recuperación) es mejor cuando el cáncer se encuentra temprano.

Entre los signos y síntomas de cáncer de cuello uterino están el sangrado vaginal y dolor pélvico.

Estos y otros signos y síntomas pueden ser debidos al cáncer de cuello uterino o por otrasafecciones. Consulte con su médico si presenta algo de lo siguiente:
  • Sangrado vaginal (incluido el sangrado después de una relación sexual).
  • Flujo vaginal inusual.
  • Dolor pélvico.
  • Dolor durante las relaciones sexuales.

Para detectar (encontrar) y diagnosticar el cáncer de cuello uterino, se utilizan pruebas que examinan el cuello uterino.

Se pueden utilizar los siguientes procedimientos:
  • Examen físico y antecedentes : examen del cuerpo para revisar el estado general de salud, como identificar cualquier signo de enfermedad, como nódulos o cualquier otra cosa que parezca inusual. También se toman datos sobre los hábitos de salud del paciente, así como los antecedentes de enfermedades y los tratamientos aplicados en cada caso.
  • Examen pélvico: examen de la vagina, el cuello del útero, el útero, las trompas de Falopio, los ovarios, y el recto. Se introduce un espéculo en la vagina y el médico oenfermero revisa la vagina y el cuello uterino en busca de enfermedad. Por lo general se realiza una prueba Pap del cuello uterino. El médico o enfermero introduce también uno o dos dedos de una mano, enguantados y lubricados dentro de la vagina y coloca la otra mano en la parte baja del abdomen para palpar el tamaño, la forma y la posición del útero y los ovarios. El médico o enfermero también introduce un dedo enguantado y lubricado en el recto para palpar masas o áreas anormales.
    AMPLIARExamen pélvico; la imagen muestra una vista lateral de la anatomía del aparato reproductor femenino durante un examen pélvico. Se observan el útero, la trompa de Falopio izquierda, el ovario izquierdo, el cuello uterino, la vagina, la vejiga y el recto. El médico o enfermero introduce dos dedos enguantados en la vagina, mientras se ve la otra mano presionando en la parte inferior del abdomen. El recuadro muestra a una mujer cubierta por una sábana sobre una camilla con las piernas separadas y los pies colocados en estribos.
    Examen pélvico. El médico o enfermero introduce uno o dos dedos lubricados, enguantados en la vagina, mientras presiona la parte inferior del abdomen con la otra mano. Esto se realiza para palpar el tamaño, la forma y la posición del útero y los ovarios. También se revisa la vagina, el cuello uterino, las trompas de Falopio y el recto.
  • Prueba de Pap: procedimiento para recoger células de la superficie del cuello uterino y la vagina. Se utiliza un trozo de algodón, un cepillo o una paleta de madera para raspar suavemente las células del cuello uterino y la vagina. Las células se examinan bajo unmicroscopio para determinar si son anormales. Este procedimiento también se llama prueba Pap.
    AMPLIARPrueba de Pap; la imagen muestra una vista lateral de la anatomía del aparato reproductor femenino durante una prueba de Pap. Se observa un espéculo que ensancha la abertura de la vagina. Se ve un cepillo que se introdujo en la vagina abierta y que toca el cuello uterino en la base del útero. También se puede ver el recto. En un recuadro, se observa el cepillo tocando el centro del cuello uterino. En otro recuadro, se observa a una mujer cubierta por una sábana en una camilla con las piernas separadas y los pies colocados en estribos.
    Prueba de Pap. Se introduce un espéculo en la vagina para ensancharla. Luego, se introduce un cepillo en la vagina para obtener células del cuello uterino. Las células se observan al microscopio para determinar si hay signos de enfermedad.
  • Prueba del virus del papiloma humano (VPH) prueba de laboratorio en la que se analiza el ADN o el ARN para determinar si hay ciertos tipos de infección por el VPH. Se extraen células del cuello uterino y del ADN o ARN y se revisan para ver si la causa de la infección es algún tipo de VPH que está relacionado con el cáncer de cuello uterino. Esta prueba se puede llevar a cabo con el uso de las muestras de células que se extraen durante una prueba de Pap. Esta prueba también se hace si los resultados de la prueba de Pap muestran ciertas células anormales en el cuello uterino.
  • Legrado endocervical : procedimiento para el que se recogen células o tejidos del canal del cuello uterino mediante una cureta (instrumento en forma de cuchara con un borde cortante). Se extraen muestras de tejido y se observan bajo un microscopio para determinar si hay signos de cáncer. Algunas veces, este procedimiento se lleva a cabo al mismo tiempo que la colposcopia.
  • Colposcopia: procedimiento mediante el cual se usa un colposcopio (un instrumento con aumento y luz) para determinar si hay áreas anormales en la vagina o el cuello uterino. Se pueden extraer muestras de tejido con una cureta (una herramienta en forma de cuchara con un borde cortante) o un cepillo para observarlas bajo un microscopio y determinar si hay signos de enfermedad.
  • Biopsia : si se encuentran células anormales en una prueba de Pap, el médico puede realizar una biopsia. Se corta una muestra de tejido del cuello uterino para que unpatólogo la observe bajo un microscopio y determine si hay signos de cáncer. Una biopsia en la que solo se extrae una pequeña cantidad de tejido se realiza generalmente en el consultorio del médico. Puede ser necesario que la mujer vaya a un hospital para que se le practique una biopsia de cono cervical (extracción de una muestra más grande de tejido cervical, en forma de cono).

Ciertos factores afectan el pronóstico (posibilidad de recuperación) y las opciones de tratamiento.

El pronóstico (probabilidad de recuperación) depende de los siguientes aspectos:
  • Estadio del cáncer (tamaño del tumor y si afecta el cuello uterino de forma total o parcial, o se diseminó a los ganglios linfáticos u otras partes del cuerpo).
  • Tipo de cáncer de cuello uterino.
  • Edad y estado general de salud de la paciente.
  • Si la paciente tiene cierto tipo de virus del papiloma humano (VPH).
  • Si la paciente presenta el virus de inmunodeficiencia humana (VIH).
  • Si el cáncer está recién diagnosticado o recidivó (volvió).
Las opciones de tratamiento dependen de los siguientes aspectos:
  • El estadio del cáncer.
  • Tipo de cáncer de cuello uterino.
  • Si la paciente desea tener niños.
  • La edad de la paciente.
El tratamiento del cáncer de cuello uterino durante el embarazo depende del estadio del cáncer y la etapa del embarazo. Para los casos de cáncer de cuello uterino que se identifican en estadio temprano o para los casos de cáncer que se encuentran durante el último trimestre del embarazo, se puede demorar el tratamiento hasta el nacimiento del bebé. Para mayor información, consulte la sección Cáncer de cuello uterino durante el embarazo.
  • Actualización: 10 de julio de 2015






















Cervical Cancer Treatment (PDQ®)—Patient Version - National Cancer Institute

National Cancer Institute



National Cancer Institute

Cervical Cancer Treatment (PDQ®)–Patient Version



SECTIONS

General Information About Cervical Cancer

KEY POINTS

  • Cervical cancer is a disease in which malignant (cancer) cells form in the tissues of the cervix.
  • Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is the major risk factor for cervical cancer.
  • There are usually no signs or symptoms of early cervical cancer but it can be detected early with regular check-ups.
  • Signs and symptoms of cervical cancer include vaginal bleeding and pelvic pain.
  • Tests that examine the cervix are used to detect (find) and diagnose cervical cancer.
  • Certain factors affect prognosis (chance of recovery) and treatment options.

Cervical cancer is a disease in which malignant (cancer) cells form in the tissues of the cervix.

The cervix is the lower, narrow end of the uterus (the hollow, pear-shaped organ where afetus grows). The cervix leads from the uterus to the vagina (birth canal).
ENLARGEAnatomy of the female reproductive system; drawing shows the uterus, myometrium (muscular outer layer of the uterus), endometrium (inner lining of the uterus), ovaries, fallopian tubes, cervix, and vagina.
Anatomy of the female reproductive system. The organs in the female reproductive system include the uterus, ovaries, fallopian tubes, cervix, and vagina. The uterus has a muscular outer layer called the myometrium and an inner lining called the endometrium.
Cervical cancer usually develops slowly over time. Before cancer appears in the cervix, thecells of the cervix go through changes known as dysplasia, in which abnormal cells begin to appear in the cervical tissue. Over time, the abnormal cells may become cancer cells and start to grow and spread more deeply into the cervix and to surrounding areas.
Cervical cancer in children is rare.
See the following PDQ summaries for more information about cervical cancer:

Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is the major risk factor for cervical cancer.

Anything that increases your chance of getting a disease is called a risk factor. Having a risk factor does not mean that you will get cancer; not having risk factors doesn't mean that you will not get cancer. Talk to your doctor if you think you may be at risk for cervical cancer.
Risk factors for cervical cancer include the following:
  • Being infected with human papillomavirus (HPV). This is the most important risk factor for cervical cancer.
  • Being exposed to the drug DES (diethylstilbestrol) while in the mother's womb.
In women who are infected with HPV, the following risk factors add to the increased risk of cervical cancer:
There are also risk factors that increase the risk of HPV infection:
  • Having a weakened immune system caused by immunosuppression. Immunosuppression weakens the body’s ability to fight infections and other diseases. The body's ability to fight HPV infection may be lowered by long-term immunosuppression from:
  • Being sexually active at a young age.
  • Having many sexual partners.
Older age is a main risk factor for most cancers. The chance of getting cancer increases as you get older.

There are usually no signs or symptoms of early cervical cancer but it can be detected early with regular check-ups.

Early cervical cancer may not cause signs or symptoms. Women should have regular check-ups, including tests to check for human papillomavirus (HPV) or abnormal cells in the cervix. The prognosis (chance of recovery) is better when the cancer is found early.

Signs and symptoms of cervical cancer include vaginal bleeding and pelvic pain.

These and other signs and symptoms may be caused by cervical cancer or by otherconditions. Check with your doctor if you have any of the following:
  • Vaginal bleeding (including bleeding after sexual intercourse).
  • Unusual vaginal discharge.
  • Pelvic pain.
  • Pain during sexual intercourse.

Tests that examine the cervix are used to detect (find) and diagnose cervical cancer.

The following procedures may be used:
  • Physical exam and history : An exam of the body to check general signs of health, including checking for signs of disease, such as lumps or anything else that seems unusual. A history of the patient’s health habits and past illnesses and treatments will also be taken.
  • Pelvic exam : An exam of the vagina, cervix, uterus, fallopian tubesovaries, andrectum. A speculum is inserted into the vagina and the doctor or nurse looks at the vagina and cervix for signs of disease. A Pap test of the cervix is usually done. The doctor or nurse also inserts one or two lubricated, gloved fingers of one hand into the vagina and places the other hand over the lower abdomen to feel the size, shape, and position of the uterus and ovaries. The doctor or nurse also inserts a lubricated, gloved finger into the rectum to feel for lumps or abnormal areas.
    ENLARGEPelvic exam; drawing shows a side view of the female reproductive anatomy during a pelvic exam. The uterus, left fallopian tube, left ovary, cervix, vagina, bladder, and rectum are shown. Two gloved fingers of one hand of the doctor or nurse are shown inserted into the vagina, while the other hand is shown pressing on the lower abdomen. The inset shows a woman covered by a drape on an exam table with her legs apart and her feet in stirrups.
    Pelvic exam. A doctor or nurse inserts one or two lubricated, gloved fingers of one hand into the vagina and presses on the lower abdomen with the other hand. This is done to feel the size, shape, and position of the uterus and ovaries. The vagina, cervix, fallopian tubes, and rectum are also checked.
  • Pap test: A procedure to collect cells from the surface of the cervix and vagina. A piece of cotton, a brush, or a small wooden stick is used to gently scrape cells from the cervix and vagina. The cells are viewed under a microscope to find out if they are abnormal. This procedure is also called a Pap smear.
    ENLARGEPap test; drawing shows a side view of the female reproductive anatomy during a Pap test. A speculum is shown widening the opening of the vagina. A brush is shown inserted into the open vagina and touching the cervix at the base of the uterus. The rectum is also shown. One inset shows the brush touching the center of the cervix. A second inset shows a woman covered by a drape on an exam table with her legs apart and her feet in stirrups.
    Pap test. A speculum is inserted into the vagina to widen it. Then, a brush is inserted into the vagina to collect cells from the cervix. The cells are checked under a microscope for signs of disease.
  • Human papillomavirus (HPV) test : A laboratory test used to check DNA or RNA for certain types of HPV infection. Cells are collected from the cervix and DNA or RNA from the cells is checked to find out if an infection is caused by a type of HPV that is linked to cervical cancer. This test may be done using the sample of cells removed during a Pap test. This test may also be done if the results of a Pap test show certain abnormal cervical cells.
  • Endocervical curettage : A procedure to collect cells or tissue from the cervical canal using a curette (spoon-shaped instrument). Tissue samples are taken and checked under a microscope for signs of cancer. This procedure is sometimes done at the same time as a colposcopy.
  • Colposcopy: A procedure in which a colposcope (a lighted, magnifying instrument) is used to check the vagina and cervix for abnormal areas. Tissue samples may be taken using a curette (spoon-shaped instrument) or a brush and checked under a microscope for signs of disease.
  • Biopsy : If abnormal cells are found in a Pap test, the doctor may do a biopsy. A sample of tissue is cut from the cervix and viewed under a microscope by a pathologist to check for signs of cancer. A biopsy that removes only a small amount of tissue is usually done in the doctor’s office. A woman may need to go to a hospital for a cervicalcone biopsy (removal of a larger, cone-shaped sample of cervical tissue).

Certain factors affect prognosis (chance of recovery) and treatment options.

The prognosis (chance of recovery) depends on the following:
  • The stage of the cancer (the size of the tumor and whether it affects part of the cervix or the whole cervix, or has spread to the lymph nodes or other places in the body).
  • The type of cervical cancer.
  • The patient's age and general health.
  • Whether the patient has a certain type of human papillomavirus (HPV).
  • Whether the patient has human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).
  • Whether the cancer has just been diagnosed or has recurred (come back).
Treatment options depend on the following:
  • The stage of the cancer.
  • The type of cervical cancer.
  • The patient's desire to have children.
  • The patient’s age.
Treatment of cervical cancer during pregnancy depends on the stage of the cancer and the stage of the pregnancy. For cervical cancer found early or for cancer found during the last trimester of pregnancy, treatment may be delayed until after the baby is born. For more information, see the section on Cervical Cancer During Pregnancy.

Stages of Cervical Cancer

KEY POINTS

  • After cervical cancer has been diagnosed, tests are done to find out if cancer cells have spread within the cervix or to other parts of the body.
  • There are three ways that cancer spreads in the body.
  • Cancer may spread from where it began to other parts of the body.
  • The following stages are used for cervical cancer:
    • Carcinoma in Situ (Stage 0)
    • Stage I
    • Stage II
    • Stage III
    • Stage IV

After cervical cancer has been diagnosed, tests are done to find out if cancer cells have spread within the cervix or to other parts of the body.

The process used to find out if cancer has spread within the cervix or to other parts of the body is called staging. The information gathered from the staging process determines thestage of the disease. It is important to know the stage in order to plan treatment.
The following tests and procedures may be used in the staging process:
  • CT scan (CAT scan): A procedure that makes a series of detailed pictures of areas inside the body, taken from different angles. The pictures are made by a computer linked to an x-ray machine. A dye may be injected into a vein or swallowed to help theorgans or tissues show up more clearly. This procedure is also called computed tomography, computerized tomography, or computerized axial tomography.
  • PET scan (positron emission tomography scan): A procedure to find malignanttumor cells in the body. A small amount of radioactive glucose (sugar) is injected into a vein. The PET scanner rotates around the body and makes a picture of where glucose is being used in the body. Malignant tumor cells show up brighter in the picture because they are more active and take up more glucose than normal cells do.
  • MRI (magnetic resonance imaging): A procedure that uses a magnet, radio waves, and a computer to make a series of detailed pictures of areas inside the body. This procedure is also called nuclear magnetic resonance imaging (NMRI).
  • Ultrasound exam: A procedure in which high-energy sound waves (ultrasound) are bounced off internal tissues or organs and make echoes. The echoes form a picture of body tissues called a sonogram. This picture can be printed to be looked at later.
  • Chest x-ray : An x-ray of the organs and bones inside the chest. An x-ray is a type of energy beam that can go through the body and onto film, making a picture of areas inside the body.
  • Cystoscopy : A procedure to look inside the bladder and urethra to check for abnormalareas. A cystoscope is inserted through the urethra into the bladder. A cystoscope is a thin, tube-like instrument with a light and a lens for viewing. It may also have a tool to remove tissue samples, which are checked under a microscope for signs of cancer.
  • Laparoscopy : A surgical procedure to look at the organs inside the abdomen to check for signs of disease. Small incisions (cuts) are made in the wall of the abdomen and alaparoscope (a thin, lighted tube) is inserted into one of the incisions. Other instruments may be inserted through the same or other incisions to perform procedures such as removing organs or taking tissue samples to be checked under a microscope for signs of disease.
  • Pretreatment surgical stagingSurgery (an operation) is done to find out if the cancer has spread within the cervix or to other parts of the body. In some cases, thecervical cancer can be removed at the same time. Pretreatment surgical staging is usually done only as part of a clinical trial.
The results of these tests are viewed together with the results of the original tumor biopsyto determine the cervical cancer stage.

There are three ways that cancer spreads in the body.

Cancer can spread through tissue, the lymph system, and the blood:
  • Tissue. The cancer spreads from where it began by growing into nearby areas.
  • Lymph system. The cancer spreads from where it began by getting into the lymph system. The cancer travels through the lymph vessels to other parts of the body.
  • Blood. The cancer spreads from where it began by getting into the blood. The cancer travels through the blood vessels to other parts of the body.

Cancer may spread from where it began to other parts of the body.

When cancer spreads to another part of the body, it is called metastasis. Cancer cells break away from where they began (the primary tumor) and travel through the lymph system or blood.
  • Lymph system. The cancer gets into the lymph system, travels through the lymph vessels, and forms a tumor (metastatic tumor) in another part of the body.
  • Blood. The cancer gets into the blood, travels through the blood vessels, and forms a tumor (metastatic tumor) in another part of the body.
The metastatic tumor is the same type of cancer as the primary tumor. For example, if cervical cancer spreads to the lung, the cancer cells in the lung are actually cervical cancer cells. The disease is metastatic cervical cancer, not lung cancer.

The following stages are used for cervical cancer:

Carcinoma in Situ (Stage 0)

In carcinoma in situ (stage 0)abnormal cells are found in the innermost lining of the cervix. These abnormal cells may become cancer and spread into nearby normal tissue.
ENLARGEMillimeters; drawing shows millimeters (mm) using everyday objects. A sharp pencil point shows 1 mm, a new crayon point shows 2 mm, and a new pencil-top eraser shows 5 mm.
Millimeters (mm). A sharp pencil point is about 1 mm, a new crayon point is about 2 mm, and a new pencil eraser is about 5 mm.

Stage I

In stage Icancer is found in the cervix only.
Stage I is divided into stages IA and IB, based on the amount of cancer that is found.
  • Stage IA:
    ENLARGEStage IA1 and IA2 cervical cancer; drawing shows a cross-section of the cervix and vagina. An inset shows cancer in the cervix that is up to 5 mm deep, but not more than 7 mm wide.
    Stage IA1 and IA2 cervical cancer. A very small amount of cancer that can only be seen with a microscope is found in the tissues of the cervix. In stage IA1, the cancer is not more than 3 millimeters deep and not more than 7 millimeters wide. In stage IA2, the cancer is more than 3 but not more than 5 millimeters deep, and not more than 7 millimeters wide.
    A very small amount of cancer that can only be seen with a microscope is found in thetissues of the cervix.
    Stage IA is divided into stages IA1 and IA2, based on the size of the tumor.
    • In stage IA1, the cancer is not more than 3 millimeters deep and not more than 7 millimeters wide.
    • In stage IA2, the cancer is more than 3 but not more than 5 millimeters deep, and not more than 7 millimeters wide.
  • Stage IB:
    ENLARGEStage IB1 and IB2 cervical cancer shown in three cross-section drawings of the cervix and vagina. An inset on the left shows stage IB1 cancer that is 7 mm wide and more than 5 mm deep. Drawing in the middle shows stage IB1 cancer that is smaller than 4 cm. Drawing on the right shows stage IB2 cancer that is larger than 4 cm.
    Stage IB1 and IB2 cervical cancer. In stage IB1, the cancer can only be seen with a microscope and is more than 5 mm deep and more than 7 mm wide OR the cancer can be seen without a microscope and is 4 cm or smaller. In stage IB2, the cancer is larger than 4 cm.
    Stage IB is divided into stages IB1 and IB2, based on the size of the tumor.
    • In stage IB1:
      • the cancer can only be seen with a microscope and is more than 5 millimetersdeep and more than 7 millimeters wide; or
      • the cancer can be seen without a microscope and is not more than 4centimeters.
    • In stage IB2, the cancer can be seen without a microscope and is more than 4 centimeters.

Stage II

ENLARGEStage II cervical cancer; drawing shows a cross-section of the uterus, cervix and vagina. In stages IIA1 and IIA2, cancer that is 4 cm is shown in the cervix and in the upper third of the vagina. In stage IIB, cancer is shown in the cervix, the upper two thirds of the vagina, and in the tissues around the uterus.
Stage II cervical cancer. Cancer has spread beyond the cervix but not to the pelvic wall or to the lower third of the vagina. In stages IIA1 and IIA2, cancer has spread beyond the cervix to the vagina. In stage IIA1, the tumor can be seen without a microscope and is 4 centimeters or smaller. In stage IIA2, the tumor can be seen without a microscope and is larger than 4 centimeters. In stage IIB, cancer has spread beyond the cervix to the tissues around the uterus.
In stage IIcancer has spread beyond the uterus but not onto the pelvic wall (the tissuesthat line the part of the body between the hips) or to the lower third of the vagina.
Stage II is divided into stages IIA and IIB, based on how far the cancer has spread.
  • Stage IIA: Cancer has spread beyond the cervix to the upper two thirds of the vaginabut not to tissues around the uterus. Stage IIA is divided into stages IIA1 and IIA2, based on the size of the tumor.
    • In stage IIA1, the tumor can be seen without a microscope and is not more than 4centimeters.
    • In stage IIA2, the tumor can be seen without a microscope and is more than 4 centimeters.
  • Stage IIB: Cancer has spread beyond the cervix to the tissues around the uterus but not onto the pelvic wall.

Stage III

In stage IIIcancer has spread to the lower third of the vagina, and/or onto the pelvic wall, and/or has caused kidney problems.
Stage III is divided into stages IIIA and IIIB, based on how far the cancer has spread.
  • Stage IIIA:
    ENLARGEStage IIIA cervical cancer; drawing shows a cross-section of the cervix and vagina. Cancer is shown in the cervix and in the full length of the vagina.
    Stage IIIA cervical cancer. Cancer has spread to the lower third of the vagina but not to the pelvic wall.
    Cancer has spread to the lower third of the vagina but not onto the pelvic wall.
  • Stage IIIB:
    ENLARGEStage IIIB cervical cancer; drawing shows cancer in the cervix, the vagina, and  the pelvic wall, blocking the ureter on the right. The uterus and kidneys are also shown.
    Stage IIIB cervical cancer. Cancer has spread to the pelvic wall; and/or the tumor has become large enough to block the ureters (the tubes that connect the kidneys to the bladder). The drawing shows the ureter on the right blocked by the cancer. This blockage can cause the kidney to enlarge or stop working.
    • Cancer has spread onto the pelvic wall; or
    • the tumor has become large enough to block one or both ureters (tubes that connect the kidneys to the bladder) and has caused one or both kidneys to get bigger or stop working.

Stage IV

In stage IVcancer has spread beyond the pelvis, or can be seen in the lining of the bladderand/or rectum, or has spread to other parts of the body.
Stage IV is divided into stages IVA and IVB, based on where the cancer has spread.
  • Stage IVA:
    ENLARGEStage IVA cervical cancer; drawing and inset show that cancer has spread from the cervix to the bladder and rectal wall.
    Stage IVA cervical cancer. Cancer has spread to nearby organs, such as the bladder or rectum.
    Cancer has spread to nearby organs, such as the bladder or rectum.
  • Stage IVB:
    ENLARGEStage IVB cervical cancer; drawing shows other parts of the body where cervical cancer may spread, including the lymph nodes, lung, liver, intestinal tract, and bone. An inset shows cancer cells spreading from the cervix, through the blood and lymph system, to another part of the body where metastatic cancer has formed.
    Stage IVB cervical cancer. The cancer has spread to other parts of the body, such as the lymph nodes, lung, liver, intestine, or bone.
    Cancer has spread to other parts of the body, such as the liverlungs, bones, or distantlymph nodes.

Recurrent Cervical Cancer

Recurrent cervical cancer is cancer that has recurred (come back) after it has been treated. The cancer may come back in the cervix or in other parts of the body.

Treatment Option Overview

KEY POINTS

  • There are different types of treatment for patients with cervical cancer.
  • Four types of standard treatment are used:
    • Surgery
    • Radiation therapy
    • Chemotherapy
    • Targeted therapy
  • New types of treatment are being tested in clinical trials.
  • Patients may want to think about taking part in a clinical trial.
  • Patients can enter clinical trials before, during, or after starting their cancer treatment.
  • Follow-up tests may be needed.

There are different types of treatment for patients with cervical cancer.

Different types of treatment are available for patients with cervical cancer. Some treatments are standard (the currently used treatment), and some are being tested inclinical trials. A treatment clinical trial is a research study meant to help improve current treatments or obtain information on new treatments for patients with cancer. When clinical trials show that a new treatment is better than the standard treatment, the new treatment may become the standard treatment. Patients may want to think about taking part in a clinical trial. Some clinical trials are open only to patients who have not started treatment.

Four types of standard treatment are used:

Surgery

Surgery (removing the cancer in an operation) is sometimes used to treat cervical cancer. The following surgical procedures may be used:
  • Conization: A procedure to remove a cone-shaped piece of tissue from the cervix andcervical canal. A pathologist views the tissue under a microscope to look for cancercells. Conization may be used to diagnose or treat a cervical condition. This procedure is also called a cone biopsy.
    Conization may be done using one of the following procedures:
    The type of conization procedure used depends on where the cancer cells are in the cervix and the type of cervical cancer.
  • Total hysterectomy: Surgery to remove the uterus, including the cervix. If the uterus and cervix are taken out through the vagina, the operation is called a vaginalhysterectomy. If the uterus and cervix are taken out through a large incision (cut) in the abdomen, the operation is called a total abdominal hysterectomy. If the uterus and cervix are taken out through a small incision in the abdomen using a laparoscope, the operation is called a total laparoscopic hysterectomy.
    ENLARGEHysterectomy; drawing shows the female reproductive anatomy, including the ovaries, uterus, vagina, fallopian tubes, and cervix. Dotted lines show which organs and tissues are removed in a total hysterectomy, a total hysterectomy with salpingo-oophorectomy, and a radical hysterectomy. An inset shows the location of two possible incisions on the abdomen: a low transverse incision is just above the pubic area and a vertical incision is between the navel and the pubic area.
    Hysterectomy. The uterus is surgically removed with or without other organs or tissues. In a total hysterectomy, the uterus and cervix are removed. In a total hysterectomy with salpingo-oophorectomy, (a) the uterus plus one (unilateral) ovary and fallopian tube are removed; or (b) the uterus plus both (bilateral) ovaries and fallopian tubes are removed. In a radical hysterectomy, the uterus, cervix, both ovaries, both fallopian tubes, and nearby tissue are removed. These procedures are done using a low transverse incision or a vertical incision.
  • Radical hysterectomy: Surgery to remove the uterus, cervix, part of the vagina, and a wide area of ligaments and tissues around these organs. The ovariesfallopian tubes, or nearby lymph nodes may also be removed.
  • Modified radical hysterectomy: Surgery to remove the uterus, cervix, upper part of the vagina, and ligaments and tissues that closely surround these organs. Nearby lymph nodes may also be removed. In this type of surgery, not as many tissues and/or organs are removed as in a radical hysterectomy.
  • Radical trachelectomy: Surgery to remove the cervix, nearby tissue and lymph nodes, and the upper part of the vagina. The uterus and ovaries are not removed.
  • Bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy: Surgery to remove both ovaries and both fallopian tubes.
  • Pelvic exenteration: Surgery to remove the lower colonrectum, and bladder. The cervix, vagina, ovaries, and nearby lymph nodes are also removed. Artificial openings (stoma) are made for urine and stool to flow from the body to a collection bag. Plastic surgery may be needed to make an artificial vagina after this operation.

Radiation therapy

Radiation therapy is a cancer treatment that uses high-energy x-rays or other types ofradiation to kill cancer cells or keep them from growing. There are two types of radiation therapy. External radiation therapy uses a machine outside the body to send radiation toward the cancer. Internal radiation therapy uses a radioactive substance sealed in needles, seeds, wires, or catheters that are placed directly into or near the cancer. The way the radiation therapy is given depends on the type and stage of the cancer being treated.
Intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) is a type of 3-dimensional (3-D) radiation therapy that uses a computer to make pictures of the size and shape of the tumor. Thin beams of radiation of different intensities (strengths) are aimed at the tumor from many angles. This type of radiation therapy causes less damage to healthy tissue near the tumor.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is a cancer treatment that uses drugs to stop the growth of cancer cells, either by killing the cells or by stopping them from dividing. When chemotherapy is taken by mouth or injected into a vein or muscle, the drugs enter the bloodstream and can reach cancer cells throughout the body (systemic chemotherapy). When chemotherapy is placed directly into the cerebrospinal fluid, an organ, or a body cavity such as the abdomen, the drugs mainly affect cancer cells in those areas (regional chemotherapy). The way the chemotherapy is given depends on the type and stage of the cancer being treated.
See Drugs Approved for Cervical Cancer for more information.

Targeted therapy

Targeted therapy is a type of treatment that uses drugs or other substances to identify and attack specific cancer cells without harming normal cells.
Monoclonal antibody therapy is a type of targeted therapy that uses antibodies made in the laboratory from a single type of immune system cell. These antibodies can identify substances on cancer cells or normal substances that may help cancer cells grow. The antibodies attach to the substances and kill the cancer cells, block their growth, or keep them from spreading. Monoclonal antibodies are given by infusion. They may be used alone or to carry drugs, toxins, or radioactive material directly to cancer cells.
Bevacizumab is a monoclonal antibody that binds to a protein called vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and may prevent the growth of new blood vessels that tumors need to grow. Bevacizumab is used to treat cervical cancer that has metastasized (spread to other parts of the body) and recurrent cervical cancer.
See Drugs Approved for Cervical Cancer for more information.

New types of treatment are being tested in clinical trials.

Information about clinical trials is available from the NCI website.

Patients may want to think about taking part in a clinical trial.

For some patients, taking part in a clinical trial may be the best treatment choice. Clinical trials are part of the cancer research process. Clinical trials are done to find out if new cancer treatments are safe and effective or better than the standard treatment.
Many of today's standard treatments for cancer are based on earlier clinical trials. Patients who take part in a clinical trial may receive the standard treatment or be among the first to receive a new treatment.
Patients who take part in clinical trials also help improve the way cancer will be treated in the future. Even when clinical trials do not lead to effective new treatments, they often answer important questions and help move research forward.

Patients can enter clinical trials before, during, or after starting their cancer treatment.

Some clinical trials only include patients who have not yet received treatment. Other trials test treatments for patients whose cancer has not gotten better. There are also clinical trials that test new ways to stop cancer from recurring (coming back) or reduce the side effects of cancer treatment.
Clinical trials are taking place in many parts of the country. See the Treatment Options section that follows for links to current treatment clinical trials. These have been retrieved from NCI's listing of clinical trials.

Follow-up tests may be needed.

Some of the tests that were done to diagnose the cancer or to find out the stage of the cancer may be repeated. Some tests will be repeated in order to see how well the treatment is working. Decisions about whether to continue, change, or stop treatment may be based on the results of these tests.
Some of the tests will continue to be done from time to time after treatment has ended. The results of these tests can show if your condition has changed or if the cancer hasrecurred (come back). These tests are sometimes called follow-up tests or check-ups.
Your doctor will ask if you have any of the following signs or symptoms, which may mean the cancer has come back:
  • Pain in the abdomen, back, or leg.
  • Swelling in the leg.
  • Trouble urinating.
  • Cough.
  • Feeling tired.
For cervical cancer, follow-up tests are usually done every 3 to 4 months for the first 2 years, followed by check-ups every 6 months. The check-up includes a current healthhistory and exam of the body to check for signs and symptoms of recurrent cervical cancer and for late effects of treatment.

Treatment Options by Stage

Carcinoma in Situ (Stage 0)

Treatment of carcinoma in situ (stage 0) may include the following:
Check the list of NCI-supported cancer clinical trials that are now accepting patients withstage 0 cervical cancer. For more specific results, refine the search by using other search features, such as the location of the trial, the type of treatment, or the name of the drug. Talk with your doctor about clinical trials that may be right for you. General information about clinical trials is available from the NCI website.

Stage IA Cervical Cancer

Stage IA cervical cancer is separated into stage IA1 and IA2.
Treatment for stage IA1 may include the following:
Treatment for stage IA2 may include the following:
Check the list of NCI-supported cancer clinical trials that are now accepting patients withstage IA cervical cancer. For more specific results, refine the search by using other search features, such as the location of the trial, the type of treatment, or the name of the drug. Talk with your doctor about clinical trials that may be right for you. General information about clinical trials is available from the NCI website.

Stages IB and IIA Cervical Cancer

Treatment of stage IB and stage IIA cervical cancer may include the following:
Check the list of NCI-supported cancer clinical trials that are now accepting patients withstage IB cervical cancer and stage IIA cervical cancer. For more specific results, refine the search by using other search features, such as the location of the trial, the type of treatment, or the name of the drug. Talk with your doctor about clinical trials that may be right for you. General information about clinical trials is available from the NCI website.

Stages IIB, III, and IVA Cervical Cancer

Treatment of stage IIBstage III, and stage IVA cervical cancer may include the following:
Check the list of NCI-supported cancer clinical trials that are now accepting patients withstage IIB cervical cancerstage III cervical cancer and stage IVA cervical cancer. For more specific results, refine the search by using other search features, such as the location of the trial, the type of treatment, or the name of the drug. Talk with your doctor about clinical trials that may be right for you. General information about clinical trials is available from the NCI website.

Stage IVB Cervical Cancer

Treatment of stage IVB cervical cancer may include the following:
Check the list of NCI-supported cancer clinical trials that are now accepting patients withstage IVB cervical cancer. For more specific results, refine the search by using other search features, such as the location of the trial, the type of treatment, or the name of the drug. Talk with your doctor about clinical trials that may be right for you. General information about clinical trials is available from the NCI website.

Treatment Options for Recurrent Cervical Cancer

Treatment of recurrent cervical cancer may include the following:
Check the list of NCI-supported cancer clinical trials that are now accepting patients withrecurrent cervical cancer. For more specific results, refine the search by using other search features, such as the location of the trial, the type of treatment, or the name of the drug. Talk with your doctor about clinical trials that may be right for you. General information about clinical trials is available from the NCI website.

Cervical Cancer During Pregnancy

General Information About Cervical Cancer During Pregnancy

Treatment of cervical cancer during pregnancy depends on the stage of the cancer and how long the patient has been pregnant. A biopsy and imaging tests may be done to determine the stage of the disease. To avoid exposing the fetus to radiationMRI(magnetic resonance imaging) is used.

Treatment Options for Cervical Cancer During Pregnancy

Carcinoma in Situ (Stage 0) During Pregnancy

Usually, no treatment is needed for carcinoma in situ (stage 0) during pregnancy. Acolposcopy may be done to check for invasive cancer.

Stage I Cervical Cancer During Pregnancy

Pregnant women with slow-growing stage I cervical cancer may be able to delay treatment until the second trimester of pregnancy or after delivery.
Pregnant women with fast-growing stage I cervical cancer may need immediate treatment. Treatment may include:
Women should be tested to find out if the cancer has spread to the lymph nodes. If cancer has spread to the lymph nodes, immediate treatment may be needed.

Stage II, III, and IV Cervical Cancer During Pregnancy

Treatment for stage IIstage III, and stage IV cervical cancer during pregnancy may include the following:
  • Chemotherapy to shrink the tumor in the second or third trimester of pregnancy.Surgery or radiation therapy may be done after delivery.
  • Radiation therapy plus chemotherapy. Talk with your doctor about the effects ofradiation on the fetus. It may be necessary to end the pregnancy before treatment begins.

To Learn More About Cervical Cancer

About This PDQ Summary

About PDQ

Physician Data Query (PDQ) is the National Cancer Institute's (NCI's) comprehensive cancer information database. The PDQ database contains summaries of the latest published information on cancer prevention, detection, genetics, treatment, supportive care, and complementary and alternative medicine. Most summaries come in two versions. The health professional versions have detailed information written in technical language. The patient versions are written in easy-to-understand, nontechnical language. Both versions have cancer information that is accurate and up to date and most versions are also available in Spanish.
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Purpose of This Summary

This PDQ cancer information summary has current information about the treatment of cervical cancer. It is meant to inform and help patients, families, and caregivers. It does not give formal guidelines or recommendations for making decisions about health care.

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Editorial Boards write the PDQ cancer information summaries and keep them up to date. These Boards are made up of experts in cancer treatment and other specialties related to cancer. The summaries are reviewed regularly and changes are made when there is new information. The date on each summary ("Date Last Modified") is the date of the most recent change.
The information in this patient summary was taken from the health professional version, which is reviewed regularly and updated as needed, by the PDQ Adult Treatment Editorial Board.

Clinical Trial Information

A clinical trial is a study to answer a scientific question, such as whether one treatment is better than another. Trials are based on past studies and what has been learned in the laboratory. Each trial answers certain scientific questions in order to find new and better ways to help cancer patients. During treatment clinical trials, information is collected about the effects of a new treatment and how well it works. If a clinical trial shows that a new treatment is better than one currently being used, the new treatment may become "standard." Patients may want to think about taking part in a clinical trial. Some clinical trials are open only to patients who have not started treatment.
Clinical trials are listed in PDQ and can be found online at NCI's website. Many cancer doctors who take part in clinical trials are also listed in PDQ. For more information, call the Cancer Information Service 1-800-4-CANCER (1-800-422-6237).

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The best way to cite this PDQ summary is:
PDQ® Adult Treatment Editorial Board. PDQ Cervical Cancer Treatment. Bethesda, MD: National Cancer Institute. Updated <MM/DD/YYYY>. Available at:http://www.cancer.gov/types/cervical/patient/cervical-treatment-pdq. Accessed <MM/DD/YYYY>. [PMID: 26389422]
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  • Updated: May 13, 2016

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